GARDENSAt the New York Botanical Garden through August 21st, Spanish Paradise—Gardens of the Alhambra. Cypress, date palms, and pomegranate trees anchor this tribute to the 14th century palace and gardens, along with the requisite fountains and arches, all within the Conservatory.

INSTITUTIONWe're spoiled for choice in these parts, so it's possible for a great institution like the Hispanic Society of America, 613 W. 155th [Bway] 212.926.2234, to exist without your having ever darkened its doorway. But do so, by all means: works by Goya, El Greco, Velázquez, as well as contemporary artists, is the reward. And the Bancaja Gallery, which houses Sorolla's Vision of Spain, has been newly renovated.

LANGUAGEThey've been teaching Spanish since 1968 at the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute, 684 Park [68th] 212.628.0420, both group classes and private instruction.

SCULPTUREBarcelona's Jaume Plensa created the 44-foot Echo installed in Madison Square Park—Mr. Plensa's subject is the nymph from Greek mythology who could only repeat the thoughts of others. The face is based on the daughter of Barcelona restaurateur who lives near Plensa. [Photo: James Ewing]

THEATERWe'll have to wait until November for the new Almodovar movie, a thriller called The Skin I Live In starring Antonio Banderas. Meanwhile, there's My Audition for Almodóvar, Imma Heredia's one-woman show in which comedy, music, and flamenco all have their place… And we'd be remiss not to include Repertorio Español, presenting Spanish, Latin American, and Hispanic-American theater since 1968.